Move helps address program’s stability

The health of San Diego State baseball coach Tony Gwynn, coupled with Gwynn coming to the end of his current three-year contract on July 1, has created questions in the baseball community about the program.

With this in mind, SDSU is expected to make an announcement today to address the stability and direction of the program.

Gwynn, who is concluding his fourth three-year contract since taking over as head coach following a 20-year Hall of Fame career with the Padres, is expected to receive a contract extension.

Gwynn has battled cancer in recent years and he began a health-related leave of absence in midseason. He will be welcomed back as soon as he is able to return.

A source within the university indicated that the athletic department remains committed to Gwynn, and that as long as he wants to be the Aztecs’ coach he will be the head coach. The source said SDSU is intent on showing how much it appreciates what Gwynn has done with the baseball program as well as for the overall athletic department at SDSU.

In addition to an extension for Gwynn, the Aztecs’ coaching staff is expected to be recognized with more than a handshake and a thank you for its efforts in Gwynn’s absence. How that is done remains to be seen. SDSU finished the 2014 season with a 42-21 record, won the Mountain West Tournament championship and advanced to the NCAA Tournament for the third time in six years.

Making an announcement now could go a long way in squelching rumors and innuendo down the road as the Aztecs build for the future.

The summer recruiting season is beginning — SDSU associate head coach Mark Martinez and assistant coach Joe Oliveira were among dozens of college and professional scouts in attendance Tuesday afternoon for an event showcasing local players at Poway High — and providing clarity in the school’s coaching situation is expected to assist the staff in that endeavor.